Senior Years Apprenticeship Option (SYAO)

This program lets you start apprenticeship while you are still in high school. It links regular Senior Years school instruction with paid, part-time, on-the-job apprenticeship training.

You need a qualified and insured employer who will train you as an apprentice. The SYAO Coordinator at the Apprenticeship Branch will work with you, your employer and your school Guidance Counsellor to ensure that you first meet all academic graduation requirements, then schedule your working time when you are not taking required high school classes.

Benefits of the SYAO

Many trades will soon have a huge demand for skilled workers. You get real, hands-on work experience in the job market, and can:

• earn up to eight supplemental academic credits for graduation
• have the chance to use state-of-the-art technology at work
• be paid a trade-specific rate of pay that is more than minimum wage
• use this work experience to get a full-time job
• apply your on-the-job hours to full-time apprenticeship training after graduation
• earn credits for your work experience if you later decide to be an apprentice in another trade
• use the skills you learn for a career in management or to start your own business

Qualifying for the SYAO

You must be at least 16 years old. You must be taking core subjects in Grade 9-12, have completed Grade 10 and be enrolled in an approved Manitoba Grade 11 or 12 program.

Required Academic Credits

Many trades are technology based and require math, science and computer skills. Good reading, writing and communication skills are also very important. While mechanical and hands-on skills are still core requirements to enter a trade, you should finish high school. Many trades are now asking for Grade 12 or equivalent academic standing.

Eligible Trades

You have access to career opportunities in almost 40 trades. The trades of Electrologist, Esthetician and Hairstylist do NOT qualify for the SYAO because technical training is required before on-the-job experience. For a listing of eligible trades refer to Manitoba Trades.

Find a trade that interests you, then talk to people who work in this occupation. There are thousands of specialized career options in apprenticeship trades.

For More Information

Talk to your school guidance counsellor or contact the Senior Years Apprenticeship Option Co-ordinator in Winnipeg at 945-1583. Toll-free from within Manitoba, call 1-877-978-7233.